Florida Democratic Party Executive Director Juan Peñalosa released the following statement after the Democratic amendment to ban assault rifle's failed to pass the House Rules committee:

"Today, House Republicans had an opportunity to show they stand with Parkland Students, instead of the gun lobby. But, once again, they have decided that protecting our children isn't their number one priority. Speaker Corcoran and Governor Rick Scott have refused to take meaningful action to keep Floridians safe from gun violence for years, and they continue to show these same self-serving politics as this gun proposal continues through the legislative process. Scott, Corcoran, and Tallahassee Republicans are refusing to listen to the voices of the Parkland students and gun safety advocates who have said loud and clear that this legislation, as it stands, does not go far enough without an assault rifles ban. At a time when we need action and leadership, Richard Corcoran and Rick Scott are no where to be found."